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Why CISabroad

We’ve got internships of all lengths that fit your needs. The key to Intern in China is flexibility. You can intern for a month, a year, or anything in between, at any time of year, with placements that fit your professional and academics needs.

We adore China and we know you will too. At CISabroad, all of our advisors have studied or lived abroad. We’ve been there, we know what it’s about, and we’ll be with you every step of the way while you work in Beijing or Shanghai.

We care about the environment. We know that getting on a plane to China isn’t exactly green, but it’s really the only way to go. So your round-trip flight to China will be offset by the work of CISabroad’s environmental partnerships around the world so you can rest easy and focus on your internship in China.

Program

On Intern in China, your international internship will be customized to match your interests and how long you want to live abroad. You can gain practical skills in your major and really boost your résumé with international work experience. Internships last a minimum of 6 weeks, but we encourage you to stay as long as you can. Placements are focused in the modern cities of Shanghai or Beijing. You will experience:

A custom internship placement – We understand that you aren’t interning in China to sharpen pencils and learn to brew the perfect cup of tea. Don’t worry: your internship in Shanghai or Beijing will take into account your career goals, interests, and skills.

Resume-boosting experience – Besides improving your Mandarin language skills, you’ll gain valuable international work experience and professional references for the future. You will also receive an Internship Completion Certificate and an Employer Reference Letter. This will certainly help during the post-graduation job search!

Mandarin lessons – While you do not need to know Mandarin to participate in this program, we strongly recommend that you take advantage of the Mandarin lessons offered! What better way to truly immerse yourself the culture?

Strong staff support – Before your start your internship in China you will work with CISabroad staff in the U.S. and once you arrive in Shanghai or Beijing, our on-site staff will help you with internship, excursions, and general support.

Amazing sites in China - This geographically diverse country is slightly larger than the United States. Due to this, China provides endless year-round variety for visitors to the country, from ice fesitvals in the north to tropical beach resorts in the south.

Highlights

If you've always wanted to intern in Shanghai or Beijing or just gain experience in the profession of your dreams, check out all Intern in China has to offer. Here are just a few of the key highlights that make this program unique:

Great résumé builder

A variety of placements in all industries of Shanghai or Beijing

Mandarin internships possible

Flexible start dates- select a program from a month to a year in length or choose a summer session with set dates

Work with people from China and all over the world

Comprehensive orientation and on-site support for your internship in China

See all that Shanghai and Beijing have to offer, and enjoy easy access to the rest of China

Excursions

While interning in China with CISabroad, you will have a detailed orientation to make you feel more comfortable in your new city, including help with public transportation and monthly cultural activities. Some of these activities include:

Martial artsLearn the art of Tai Qi and Kung Fu, traditional forms of Chinese martial arts that teach relaxation and self-defense. Kung Fu is more physically challenging that Tai Qi, and courses are available in all levels.

Chinese CookingLearn to prepare food Chinese family-style as we take you on a culinary journey through different Chinese cooking traditions. Your teacher will not only provide the kitchen and ingredients, but will also join you for dinner and conversation afterwards.

More involved field trips are also offered. In Beijing, these include:

Great Wall, Olympic Stadium, Hutongs, Peking DuckSee one of the man-made wonders of the world up close and personal while climbing the Great Wall of China. Then you'll visit the site of the 2008 Olympic Games. After you'll get to tour a local Hutong traditional communal style of living that was practiced by the ancient Chinese and finish off the day with Peking Duck, Beijing's most famous dish.

Taoism, Health & LongevityStart off the day with qi gong in the Temple of Earth. The session will focus on introducing core Taoist concepts along with a guided tour of the Temple of Earth. It will also explain the benefits of the exercises according to Chinese medical theory. Later in the morning you'll also be introduced to Chinese nutrition and food energetics. While enjoying a traditional Chinese breakfast, learn about the basic principles of a healthy diet including energy of foods, differences in Eastern and Western nutritional therapy, and how to eat with the seasons according to Traditional Chinese Medicine.

More examples of field trips in Beijing include visiting Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, seeing amazing Chinese acrobatics, practicing Kung Fu with Master Chen Fusheng, and volunteering at an orphanage for blind children.

In Shanghai, field trips include:

Zhu Jia Jiao Water VillageThe picturesque Zhu Jia Jiao is a classic water village. It's over 400 years old, and has a signature five-arch bridge spanning the Cao Gang River. Zhu Jia Jiao was an important town for local trade, shipping goods in and out of its man-made canals to the river. Stroll the maze of paths and bridges, and take a boat ride to view the residences of this nicely-preserved water village. Zhu Jia Jiao is also home to two impressive temples. After a few hours sightseeing in the village, you will make a stop to shop for silk. Learn how silk became a major industry in China and bargain for clothes, accessories, quilts, and handmade rugs.

Farmer's Market Walking TourYou will walk through Shanghai's largest farmer's market, where you can find fresh vegetables from local farms, homemade sticky tofu, live chickens, birds, eggs, fish, and an array of spices. You'll get a feel for old Shanghai here while walking through narrow lanes, listening to vendors call out their bargains to the morning rush. This huge wet market with its vast expanse of fresh produce is one of the few spots relatively untouched by tourists and will be sure to provide you with a few eye-opening moments.

Other examples of field trips in Shanghai include a day tour of the city, exploring art and education, visiting the ancient part of the city, visitng a park and tea market, and touring the old backstreets of the city.

Placements

Intern in China offers a wide range of internships throughout Shanghai and Beijing, giving you all the flexibility you need to get the right internship at the right time in your academic career.

Duration

For the Intern in China program you may choose: 6 weeks, 8 weeks, 12 weeks, 16 weeks, 20 weeks, or 24 weeks. Prospective interns should keep in mind that a longer internship duration period often offers more specialized placements and greater opportunity for growth and responsibility within the internship.

Internships are available in the following fields. Placements in the fields below are not guaranteed due to the changing needs of the local businesses/organizations and applicant qualifications. We always try to make the best match for you! So the sooner you apply, the better!Note: Placements with ** are "specialist placements" and require a minimum of 12 weeks.

Credit

You may be able to receive undergraduate academic credit for your internship through CISabroad’s partnership with Plymouth State University or through your school.

Option 1: Credit through CISabroadThrough our partnership with Plymouth State University, you can earn between 3-12 credits in the fields listed below. Note: the field is listed, the Plymouth State University course number that will appear on your transcript, as well as the range of credits available. Contact an advisor to see if the the following fields are available in your study abroad location.

EligibilityTo receive credit from CISabroad through Plymouth State University, interns must have completed a minimum of 60 hours (approximately 2 full years) of college or university credit before going on the program and be majoring or minoring in one of the fields listed above.

GPA 2.5

CostThere is an $800 fee for interns who wish to receive credit from Plymouth State University. There is no price difference for 3, 6, 9, or 12 credits.

How is credit given?Credit will be assessed and given based on the successful completion of a variety of assignments. Assignments include an essays, journals, and evaluations and will be assessed based on the grading rubric.

Minimum 3 page pre-departure paper based on intern’s goals for the program

Credit is given in letter grade format (A,B,C,D,F) in a specific academic discipline. The amount of credit is awarded based on the number of hours interned: 120 hours = 3 credits, 240 hours = 6 credits, 360 hours = 9 credits, 480 hours = 12 credits. Interns will receive a transcript 6-10 weeks after the program ends stating the grade and the number of credits earned. The number of hours that can be completed depends on type of internship and location.

Plymouth State University, CISabroad’s accrediting partner, is a NEASC accredited institution with over 20 years of experience awarding internship credit both domestically and internationally. Plymouth State University has been nationally recognized for its commitment to the environment and for innovative programs that are making an impact both regionally and globally.

Option 2: Credit through your university

Many students are able to arrange for credit through their home universities. Contact your study abroad office, academic advisor, or career services to see if this option is available at your school!

Process & Requirements

We’ve tried to make the internship application process as smooth and simple as possible to ensure a quality experience for you. Follow the steps below to a fantastic internship abroad!Step 1: Complete the CISabroad Online Internship Application to begin the application process. After filling out the online application, an advisor from our Global Advising Center will grant you portal access with a set of preliminary forms.Step 2: Pay the $200 application deposit and have your pre-acceptance interview with a member of our staff. This is NOT an extra fee, but a deposit applied towards your total program fee.Step 3: Complete all application pieces in your portal. After being introduced to your Program Coordinator, your Program Coordinator will add program-specific application pieces to your portal. (Please note: Both preliminary portal pieces and program-specific tasks must be completed by the application deadline.)Step 4: After all of your materials have been received at CISabroad, you’ll have a Skype or phone interview so our China based placement team so they can learn more about your skills, interests, and ideal internship to determine which placement may be the best match.Step 5: Wait for your acceptance decision!Step 6: Submit the $500 internship deposit within 2 weeks of your acceptance. This is NOT an extra fee, but a deposit applied towards your total program fee.Step 7: Once you've been matched, you may have an interview with your internship supervisor.Step 8: Receive your Letter of Invitation and begin applying for your Chinese visa!Step 9: As your internship departure date approaches, you will receive pre-departure materials via your Particpant Portal and complete a series of Online Pre-departure Orientations.Step 10: Off you go and the fun begins. You’ll be greeted at the airport by a local staff member and begin your Chinese adventure!

GPA Required: 2.5. If you find your GPA is lower than the requirement, do not despair! Use the "Contact An Advisor" button on this page or call us to let us know your situation. We'll do all we can to find the right program for you.

Scholarships

Did you know that 70% of all CISabroad students receive scholarships or grants to study or intern abroad? Scholarship and grants are awarded for everything from applying early to blogging about your intern abroad experience to taking photos of the fabulous scenery on a weekend excursion or volunteering with a local green organization!

For details on all scholarship and grant offerings and to apply, please click here.

Location

Shanghai

Shanghai, China is located on the estuary of the Yangtze River, the largest river in China and one of the most important to the life of the country. Shanghai has become one of the world’s largest and most influential economic, technological, and international trade hubs of the 21st century. Due to this, the city boasts a population of over 23 million people, which is more than triple the size of NYC! Like many parts of China, modern meets tradition as you gaze out into the blended skyline. As the largest city in China with a rich colonial past, Shanghai is infused with both ancient Chinese history and a modern, even Western, touch. Go out and enjoy the cuisine from the many regions of China and from throughout the world. Students will love the rich culture of Shanghai and will be able to get a glimpse into the pulse of a city and a country that is becoming ever more important in our globalized world.

Beijing

Beijing, China is the capital of the People’s Republic of China and holds a significant place in the history of China. The city housed China’s emperors and thousands years of imperial dynasties, but it is also where imperialism finally fell in the country. As you tour Beijing, you will see many remnants of imperial China: from the Forbidden City, to the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace and of course, the Great Wall of China. But Beijing is also the center of change in the 20th century and mixed in with tradition are the modern attractions such as the Olympic Bird’s Nest, the Water Cube, and many, many skyscrapers.

Staring out over the walls of the Temple of Heaven—the very place where emperors stood so many years ago—the huge skyscrapers and big orange cranes dotting the skyline will make you realize the dedication and pride instilled in China’s capital and its citizens. With its great night life, restaurants and awesome street shopping, there is always something to do during your free time traveling around Beijing and its four districts. Beijing's culture will quickly become a part of you and it’s something that will stay with you long after you return home.

Student Life

As a CISabroad student, you will receive excellent support on the ground. A CISabroad staff member will pick you up from the airport and take you to your housing. You will be given your Sim and international telephone card, your transportation card, your monthly meeting schedule, and an emergency card. You will also be taken to the local police station to obtain your certificate of residence.

Within the first few days of arrival, a detailed orientation during will introduce you to working in China in general and Shanghai and Beijing in particular, health and safety in China, and culture shock specific to China.

Shanghai has so much to offer you as a participant in Intern in China. Between your work schedule and Mandarin lessons, your workdays will be full. But after hours and on the weekends, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the amazing location you’re living in!

Beijing’s low cost of living makes it easy to experience as much of the city as you want to. From the famous Beijing Zoo to the many historical sites in the city, there’s always something to do. It’s easy to get around with Beijing’s easy-to-navigate subways. Be sure to check out the various markets around the city, where you can barter for gems, clothing, and other Chinese foods and souvenirs! And of course, Beijing is the perfect place to try delicious Chinese foods and sweets.

Housing

As an Intern in China student, you will live in an apartment with other interns, international students, or local Chinese students. Apartments are centrally located and the average commute to your internship will be 30 minutes to an hour. The accommodation is fully furnished and each intern will have their own bedroom. The apartment also includes a shared living room, 1 or 2 bathrooms, a TV, and may include a washing machine, or a microwave. Meals are not provided, however, you will have a kitchen in the apartment to prepare your meals.

FAQs

Interns' program fees are due approimately one month before you start your internship.

CISabroad will email invoices to students approximately one month before the program payment deadline. For example, if your payment deadline is July 15, you should expect your invoice in mid-June. If you are using financial aid, please ensure all financial aid paperwork is returned to our office by the payment deadline. If your financial aid does not cover your entire balance, CISabroad accepts these payment methods.

3. What is due with my application and when is my application due?

The application process can be broken into easy steps!

The first step is to fill out the online application, which includes your contact information, what program you are applying for, etc. (Only takes five minutes!)

After filling out the online application, an advisor from our Global Advising Center will grant you portal access with a set of preliminary forms, and you will have a pre-acceptance interview with an advisor from our Global Advising Center.

The next step is to pay the $200 application deposit in order to secure your space in the program. This amount will be applied toward the final cost.

Within a day after submitting your deposit, you will receive a welcome email from your Program Coordinator—the person you will work with until departure. Your Program Coordinator will then give you program specific items in your portal. (Note: Both preliminary portal pieces and program specific tasks must be completed by the application deadline.)

#CISabroadTip: Contact your school’s registrar and have them send us your transcript early on in the application process (you can send us your transcript even before you’ve made the $200 deposit!) since snail mail makes this the slowest piece to submit. (We do also accept electronic OFFICIAL transcripts if your school provides them.)

4. Do I need a passport or visa? When should I apply for my passport/visa?

Yes, you do need both a passport and visa to travel to China. Your passport must be valid for 6 months BEYOND the date you return to the United States. For detailed passport instructions, U.S. citizens should check the State Department's Travel Site. For the Intern in China program, CISabroad suggests using a visa agency. More specific information about applying for a Chinese visa will be provided upon acceptance to the program.

5. Is there a GPA requirement?

Yes. For the Intern in China program, the GPA requirement is 2.5.

6. What are my housing options?

The Intern in China program offers a bedroom in an apartment with other interns.

7. Will other students participate in the program with me? How many?

CISabroad programs are not only a great way to meet local and international students, but also students from around the United States. Program size varies each year - if enrollment size is important to you, contact a CISabroad advisor at 1-877-617-9090.

8. Are the internships paid positions?

No, the internships are not paid positions, but they are an irreplaceable way to build your resume! If you are interested in receiving academic credit for your internship, you should contact your academic advisor or education abroad advisor to see if your university offers course credit for internships.

9. What is the internship matching process?

We custom match each intern with the organization that best meets the interests, skills, and goals of the intern. To best accomplish this, all interns must go through the application process, which includes indicating their top two fields of interest. Interns will also interview with the CISabroad Program Coordinator and/or the On-Site matching team. Once the $500 internship deposit has been paid, the On-Site team will move forward to match the intern with an organization in his or her top two fields of interest.

10. What is the difference between an Intern Abroad and a Study Internship program?

The difference between an intern and a study intern with CISabroad is that a study internship allows you to take classes, earn credit, and participate in an internship in the same program! The intern program is solely focused on your professional experience and may or may not include credit.

11. Can I intern in my major?

Yes! It is possible to intern in your major. The process is highly individualized so that your placement is the best match! For the Intern in China program, check out our placement and credits page to see sample placements.

12. Why do I have to pay a $500 internship matching deposit?

The $500 internship matching deposit is an extremely important part of the matching process and is part of the program fees. It is not an extra fee. The deposit represents a commitment from you to participate in our internship program, which allows CISabroad to confidently contact organizations on your behalf in order to find the best match possible!

Program Video

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Program Testimonials

"Being in China was a completely amazing experience. I was obviously a foreigner, and yet everyone I met did everything they could to make me comfortable and feel welcome. People really cared about me and my general well-being, and wanted to ensure that I had a wonderful time in their country."